How to Get Super Glue Off of Formica

By Tom Ross Updated September 26, 2017

Super Glue is a chemical, and chemicals are typically required to remove it from surfaces where it doesn't belong. Get Super Glue off of formica with items commonly available in many households. Removing Super Glue requires patience, time and attention to detail. It is removable in many cases with chemicals and light work. Super Glue does not damage formica nor does acetone, which is typically used as a solvent to dissolve or soften it for simpler removal. Both Super Glue and acetone can damage many other surfaces and should be used with caution.

Working over a counter top can result in a spill, requiring glue removal.

Step 1

Remove Super Glue from formica by wetting an absorbent towel with acetone, laying it over the Super Glue deposit and covering the towel with plastic wrap to keep the acetone from evaporating.

Step 2

Remove the towel when the acetone has completely evaporated and use a non-abrasive cleaning implement such as a butter knife to work the Super Glue off the formica.

Step 3

Reapply the acetone and repeat the soaking process if the Super Glue does not come off, then continue to scrape, peel and work the glue off the formica. Reapply the acetone when the glue is gone to remove any remaining residue.

Things You Will Need

Towel

Acetone

Plastic wrap

Butter knife

Tips

Acetone is available at home improvement stores.

Use a cotton swab to apply acetone to a small area such as a drip.

Nail polish removal contains acetone and is effective for some glue removal projects.

Warnings

Super glue melts some plastics; read the package label for more information.

Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear safety glasses when working with chemicals.

Remove Super Glue from skin with a cotton swab applied directly to the glue. After removing the glue, wash hands with soap and water and apply skin lotion.

Never smoke while handling flammable chemicals.

References

About the Author

Freelance writing since 2009, Tom Ross has over 30 years of corporate management and hands-on experience in the supermarket industry. Ross was featured on the cover of "Instore Buyer" magazine and his articles have appeared on various websites.